Dunkery Beacon, Exmoor, Somerset

At 519m above sea level Dunkery Beacon is not only the highest point on Exmoor, but also in the whole of Somerset. The views, as you can imagine, are staggering, stretching right across to the Quantock Hills, Dartmoor and The Brecon Beacons. That’s assuming it’s fine and clear, and not one of those days of cloud and mizzle that are par for the course in the long winters on Exmoor.

Even so, Dunkery Beacon is a beautiful spot, rich in flora and fauna and deservedly within The North Exmoor Site of Special Scientific Interest and the Dunkery and Horner Woods National Nature Reserve: it’s also part of the Exmoor Coastal Heaths Special Area of Conservation. The moors are purply-pink with heather and ling in the summer, skylarks and wood warblers can be heard, kestrels spotted, and resident red deer and Exmoor ponies can be seen grazing.

The shortest route is a steady climb of 1.2km, with a well worn path snaking up through the heather to the summit where there’s a big stone cairn and a sign commemorating the handing over of the site to the National Trust in 1935. When it’s busy it can feel like you’re part of a pilgrimage so if you prefer a quieter walk it’s worth looking into a longer ascent that takes in broadleaved woodlands and pasture.

There are several places to park at the side of the road, but it’s worth remembering that it’s usually a tad chillier at the top of the hill with the wind blowing across the moors, so you’d be wise to take a jacket. Sensible shoes are a must, of course; flip flops or sandals just will not cut the mustard.

Dunkery Beacon is also a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site so great for star gazing – if you care to hang around after dark. For well deserved refreshments after your walk head to The Top Ship at Porlock or to the Rest and Be Thankful at Wheddon Cross.

All information correct at the time of writing